Sitar indian carved

Carved Indian sitar: a classical string instrument of India, symbol of Hindustani music and fine craftsmanship.

About this subject

The sitar is a plucked string instrument originating from the Indian subcontinent, predominantly used in Hindustani classical music of northern India. Its construction involves a long resonating chamber made from a gourd and wood, with a neck that supports 18 to 21 strings. Among these, 5 to 7 are playing strings, while the rest are sympathetic strings that vibrate in resonance, creating a distinctive hypnotic sound. The sitar features movable frets, allowing for microtones and ornaments like gamakas, essential to Indian classical music.

The word "sitar" derives from the Persian "sehtar," meaning "three strings." The modern instrument was developed and refined over centuries, especially from the 18th century onward, with contributions from musicians and artisans of the Mughal court. Ravi Shankar, the most famous sitarist of the 20th century, introduced the sitar to the West during the 1960s counterculture, influencing musicians like George Harrison of the Beatles and psychedelic rock bands. Since then, the sitar has become a global icon of Eastern spirituality and exoticism.

The carved decoration on a sitar is not merely aesthetic but also functional: the carvings on the gourd and the neck help reduce weight and improve acoustics. Traditional materials include dried gourd (tumba), teak or Indian rosewood for the gourd, and ivory (now substituted by bone or plastic) for decorative inlays, with metal strings. Crafting a high-quality sitar takes months and requires specialized knowledge passed down through generations in regions like Miraj, India. Ornately carved instruments are often commissioned by professional musicians or art collectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a sitar and a zither?

A zither is an ancient string instrument, while the sitar is a modern Indian instrument with sympathetic strings and movable frets, used in Hindustani classical music.

How many strings does a typical sitar have?

A standard sitar has 18 to 21 strings in total: 5 to 7 playing strings for melody, and the rest are sympathetic strings that vibrate freely.

What types of wood are commonly used in sitar construction?

Common woods are teak and Indian rosewood, chosen for their density and acoustic properties. The resonating chamber is made from a dried gourd (tumba).